Fishing in Cypress Swamps of North America

Although difficult to visit by land, cypress swamps are excellent places for freshwater fishing. Many of the top cypress swamps in North America have water access. Fishing these dark waters is done by kayak, canoe or small boat. Depending on the region, anglers may encounter a wide range of fish while exploring these remote areas.

– Largemouth bass are one of the top predatory fish of cypress swamps and the creeks that run thru them. They are the most popular North American game fish.

– Members of the sunfish family inhabit almost every river, creek and lagoon of these environments. They are small but beautifully colored fish that feed on insects and smaller fish. Bluegill, pumpkinseed and shellcrackers are a few of the sunfish that frequent swamp waters.

– Several species of catfish are common in coastal swamps. Channel catfish, white catfish and bullhead catfish are all inhabitants of creeks and rivers that dissect swampy areas.

– Yellow perch are common in creeks and deep areas. These small fish are brightly colored, often having alternating bands of green or brown and lighter yellow. Their fins are orange-red.

– Chain pickerel are found among lily pads, or lurking around stumps or fallen logs. They wait in ambush, feeding on smaller fish. Chain pickerel are camouflaged to blend in among aquatic plants.

– Longnose gar are commonly seen in slow moving sections of these swamps. These pre-historic fish lie in wait to feed on minnows and small fish.

– Atlantic sturgeon inhabit rivers and creeks that run thru cypress swamps. Sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish of the North American Atlantic coast. Females may reach lengths of 8 feet and weigh several hundred pounds.

– Common carp are often seen in the creeks and rivers of cypress swamps. These heavy bodied fish have a lengthy dorsal fin which extends along the back. The tail fin is forked and is often a “reddish” color.